Writer--Are You in a Funk?

Frustration

Lots of people are now working from home during this unprecedented pandemic. Most writers have always worked at home. We know how to do that, but we don't know how to fit in a writing life with kids home from school, perhaps a spouse also working from home, not being able to get out to shop, eat, drink, go to games and more. 

If you've been the least bit frustrated about your writing life, then you add some or all of those things mentioned above, you might easily slip into a real funk. Just for fun, I looked up the meaning of funk. The dictionary says it is a state of depression. For the British, however, it means a coward. As a verb, it means avoid (a task or thing) out of fear. The first and last seem to fit my usage quite well. 

What are you going to do to pull yourself out of the funk? Check the list below: 

• Make two lists, one showing what you are grateful for in your complete life, and the other showing what you are grateful for in your writing life
• Take a walk outside--alone or with family members in an unpopulated place
• Walk the dog in an unpopulated place
• Look back at some of your publications--pat yourself on the back if you have them
• Start a new writing project--they bring enthusiasm
• Take a break off and on--don't let writing consume your day
• Do your writing in the daytime, spend the evening reading or watching a movie or games with the family
• Order a new book that will help you learn something new about writing--they can be inspiring
• Get some exercise
• If you have children, have them work on their own writing projects; share with one another
• If you really get down, give yourself a verbal spanking. I've done this more than once, and strangely enough, it seems to help. Do it quietly in your mind, not so your family can witness what you're doing! 
• Call a friend or other family members; talking with others can be helpful
• Work on submitting to publications and contests. You've probably got lots of unpublished pieces in your files. Working on finding a home for them can give you some hope.

I hate to even say this, but there are some people who rather enjoy being in a funk. They like to wallow in self-pity. My heart goes out to them. I'm sure it's not a pleasant way to live. For the rest, may your frustration and 'bit of funk' be short-lived. Once this self-isolation is lifted, I think we'll all be a bit giddy, ready to move on with our writing lives and the rest of our lives, as well.